The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has issued a stern warning to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) over what it termed “persistent non-performance” by M/s Ranta Infrastructure Projects Pvt. Ltd., the contractor for the National Highway-29 (Package-II: Chakhabama to Kikrüma) project.
In a letter to the NHIDCL Regional Office, Kohima, the Union said it was “deeply concerned and strongly indignant” over the “continued negligence and unsatisfactory performance” of the contractor. Despite “repeated appeals, representations, and even official actions,” the ground situation “continues to remain deplorable and hazardous for commuters,” the Union stated.
“The poor workmanship, lack of progress, and complete absence of accountability have caused immense hardship to the traveling public, transporters, and local residents alike,” the CSU said, adding that “there has been no tangible improvement on the ground” despite multiple assurances from both NHIDCL and the contractor.
The Union recalled that during a consultative meeting convened by the DC Phek on May 14, 2025, NHIDCL and the EPC contractor had assured to repair and maintain the road throughout the monsoon season and resume full-scale construction by the second week of October 2025. However, it alleged that neither commitment was honoured.
Accusing NHIDCL of failing to take “effective corrective measures or penal action” against the contractor, the CSU demanded “immediate and decisive intervention” to “take stringent disciplinary and contractual actions” and ensure visible progress in the project.
Warning of public agitation if the situation remains “unattended,” the Union said: “In such an event, the NHIDCL and the Contractor shall bear full responsibility for any consequences arising thereof.”
The CSU urged the matter be treated with “utmost seriousness and urgency” to restore public confidence and ensure timely completion of the road project, which it termed “a vital infrastructure of national importance.”
